Episodes

  • #37 - Burnout, Rust-Out, and the Real ROI of Mental Health at Work with Rebecca Reed

    #37 - Burnout, Rust-Out, and the Real ROI of Mental Health at Work with Rebecca Reed
    May 7 2025
    In this must-listen episode of The State of Work Today, I speak with Rebecca Reed, global workplace wellbeing expert and founder of Siendo, who reveals her remarkable journey from corporate banking to frontline mental health care. Especially important this May and mental health awareness month in Canada, the US and the UK. Discover why your organization might be missing critical early warning signs of employee stress, how the overlooked phenomenon of "rust-out" can be just as devastating as burnout, and practical leadership strategies that genuinely build psychological safety. Rebecca presents compelling ROI data proving that neglecting mental health initiatives actually costs your business more than implementing effective wellbeing programs. Listen now to transform how you approach mental health in your workplace and unlock the hidden performance potential of a truly supported team. Bonus: Download Rebecca's exclusive Pressure-Performance Curve Management Tool: https://www.siendo.co.uk/pressure-performance-curve-management-tools/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    1 hr and 1 min
  • #36 - Beyond the Résumé: Marcus Fischer on Talent, Tech & the Future of Work

    #36 - Beyond the Résumé: Marcus Fischer on Talent, Tech & the Future of Work
    May 1 2025
    What does it really take to build a world-class talent strategy? In this episode of State of Work Today, I talk with Marcus Fischer, co-founder of Time for Hires and a seasoned leader in global talent acquisition. From starting his career in HR “by accident” to shaping recruitment strategies at Audi, Volkswagen, and Swiss banks, Marcus brings two decades of lessons in recruiting, employer branding, and the rise of AI in hiring. We explore why the old playbook for employer branding no longer works, how to attract young talent in a fast-changing world, and what the next generation of HR leaders must understand to succeed. Whether you’re in HR, a hiring manager, or just passionate about the future of work, you’ll walk away with practical insights—and a new appreciation for how careers are built, not just planned. Listen now to hear why authenticity, adaptability, and curiosity are the new cornerstones of talent acquisition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    59 mins
  • #35 - Inside the Union Surge: Michael VanDervort on Starbucks, AI, and the Future of Work

    #35 - Inside the Union Surge: Michael VanDervort on Starbucks, AI, and the Future of Work
    Apr 24 2025
    What happens when decades of HR expertise meet today’s most pressing workplace challenges? You get this episode. I’m joined by Michael VanDervort—labor relations expert, consultant, and co-host of two HR podcasts—for a no-nonsense look at what’s really going on inside today’s workplaces. We dig into the Starbucks union wave, how AI is rewriting HR playbooks, and what employers must do to keep trust from slipping. Michael also shares how his journey from mail carrier to industry thought leader shaped his approach to culture, communication, and change. From frontline insights to executive strategy, this one’s packed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    55 mins
  • #34 - People Over Policy: Steve Browne on Human-Centered HR

    #34 - People Over Policy: Steve Browne on Human-Centered HR
    Apr 16 2025
    In this episode of The State of Work Today podcast, I sit down with HR legend Steve Browne, Chief People Officer at LaRosa’s, to talk about what it really means to be a people-first leader. From his decades of experience across manufacturing, professional services, and hospitality, Steve shares how being present, intentional, and radically human can transform company culture, boost retention, and make HR... actually cool. We talk about frontline leadership, why 98% of a GM’s time is people-related, the importance of connection, and why celebrating a 5-year work anniversary with a hoagie and a laugh might be more powerful than any performance review. Steve also opens up about flipping the “HR is scary” script, and why every location is its own cultural lab. If you’re in HR or care about building workplaces that work for people, this one’s a must-listen. Also - HR Net is a community created by Steve Browne to give HR leaders a space to connect, share resources, and support each other—be sure to join if you're looking for real-world advice, fresh ideas, and a network that truly gets what it's like to be in HR. Listen now. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    57 mins
  • #33 From Chemistry to Coaching: Cecile Peterkin on Purpose-Driven Careers

    #33 From Chemistry to Coaching: Cecile Peterkin on Purpose-Driven Careers
    Apr 9 2025
    What if your dream job isn’t a title, but a feeling? On this episode of State of Work Today, I talk with Cecile Peterkin, Founder and Chief Transformation Strategist at the Leadership Coaching Center. Cecile shares her journey from science to finance to leadership coaching—driven by a deep love for people and a passion for helping others rediscover their purpose. We dig into why so many professionals feel stuck, how women can uncover and apply their untapped leadership skills, and why mentorship is critical for real transformation inside companies. If you’ve ever felt misaligned in your career or unsure how to move forward, this conversation will give you both clarity and hope. Listen now to hear how you can reconnect with what brings you joy—and build a career around it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    45 mins
  • #32 - Why Most Hiring Fails – And What to Do Instead, with Dr. Michael Neal

    #32 - Why Most Hiring Fails – And What to Do Instead, with Dr. Michael Neal
    Apr 2 2025
    Ever feel like hiring is just a gamble? In this episode of State of Work Today, I sit down with Dr. Michael Neal—optometrist, entrepreneur, and founder of Build My Team—to unpack why most hiring processes are set up to fail. Drawing from two decades in clinical practice and a hiring method rooted in psychometrics, Dr. Neal shares how he went from constant staffing chaos to building high-performing teams that actually stay. We dive into why traditional resumes don't work, what small businesses can learn from the Four Seasons and Disney, and how to spot top talent using science instead of gut instinct. If you're tired of bad hires and want a better way, this one's for you. Listen now—you’ll never look at hiring the same way again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • #31 - Leading, Growing, and Thriving Without a Big Budget with Amber A. Johnson, PhD

    #31 - Leading, Growing, and Thriving Without a Big Budget with Amber A. Johnson, PhD
    Mar 26 2025
    Guest: Amber A. Johnson, PhD – Leadership & Strategy Consultant In this episode, I sit down with Amber Johnson, a leadership and strategy consultant with over 25 years of experience in developing leaders and driving organizational change. We get into what it really means to lead and grow people when budgets are tight and resources are limited. Amber shares smart, practical strategies for upskilling employees without formal programs, building cultures of feedback, and how both leaders and individuals can take ownership of development. If you're managing a team or thinking about your own growth, this episode is packed with real, usable insights. Listen now, and be sure to sign up for her newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    44 mins
  • #30 - Making Hybrid Work, Work – with Gary Cookson

    #30 - Making Hybrid Work, Work – with Gary Cookson
    Mar 19 2025
    Hybrid work is here to stay—but are companies doing it right? In this episode, I sit down with Gary Cookson, workplace performance expert and author of Making Hybrid Working Work, to explore what it really takes to succeed in a hybrid environment. We cover why the five-day workweek is outdated, how AI is reshaping HR, and why leaders must rethink the way they manage remote teams. Gary shares practical strategies for improving team collaboration, measuring success, and preparing for the future of work. If you care about leadership, employee engagement, and the future of work, this episode is a must-listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    58 mins